Adventure ride

Small-capacity adventure bikes are gaining popularity worldwide, including in India. Over the last decade, rising fuel prices, an ageing western motorcycle market, a booming Southeast Asian market, and iconic TV shows have fuelled their growth. These bikes are significantly lighter than their larger counterparts — a major advantage when tackling off-road trails. Their reduced weight also makes them easier to handle in city traffic.

Affordability is another big plus. They’re cheaper to buy and maintain, and their rugged build means they can take a fall without costly repairs. With their go-anywhere capability, these bikes let you explore well beyond paved roads.

Perhaps their biggest appeal is comfort. Designed for long rides, they offer a relaxed riding position, well-tuned suspension, and engines optimised for endurance. Advances in chassis design, suspension and tyres also make them surprisingly capable on asphalt. While they may not be as agile as sport bikes, they’re still a blast to ride, even on twisty roads.

Adventure bikes prioritise function over form, making them practical and easy to live with. For riders who value exploration over constant maintenance, they’re an ideal choice.

Most major brands in India have embraced this segment, organising events and promoting adventure touring. Add to that a thriving adventure biking community, and you have the perfect recipe for discovering the world from the saddle.

PACKED WITH OPTIONS

The adventure bike market in India caters to both casual commuters and serious tourers.

At the commuter-friendly end, there’s the Honda CB200X. It looks like an ADV, but Honda calls it a “smart commuter”. With a 184cc engine, it’s great for city riding and occasional light off-roading — an entry into the adventure world.

Next up is the Suzuki V-Strom SX, with a 249cc oil-cooled engine that offers decent power for highways and trails. A 19-inch front wheel and good ground clearance enhance its off-road capability, though its small fuel tank may be a drawback for long trips.

For a premium option, the BMW G 310 GS brings the iconic BMW badge and a refined 313cc engine. It’s great on the road and manageable on gravel, though not built for hardcore off-roading.

The Yezdi Adventure, resembling the original Royal Enfield Himalayan, features a 334cc engine and a 21-inch front wheel — perfect for rough terrain. A large fuel tank is a plus, but Yezdi’s service network is still growing.

Speaking of the Himalayan, Royal Enfield has stepped up with the Himalayan 450 — a significant upgrade with more power, modern features like a TFT screen with navigation, and improved performance. The original Himalayan created the ADV market in India, and this new version continues to set the benchmark.

For those looking for a bigger bike, the Benelli TRK 502 is a proper adventure tourer with a comfortable riding position, ample features, and a capable twin-cylinder engine — ideal for long-distance touring at a competitive price.

Honda’s NX500, successor to the CB500X, is another solid choice. It offers a smooth engine, premium build quality, and a host of features. While more road-biased than some rivals, it can handle light off-road trails. Its price is on the higher side, but Honda’s legendary reliability makes up for it.

Looking ahead, the 2025 KTM 390 Adventure is a game-changer. Already a top contender in India’s ADV market, the latest version boasts of adjustable suspension, advanced electronic aids, and a more powerful engine. With its S and X variants first revealed at EICMA 2024, it’s set to be a serious competitor once it hits Indian roads.

Exciting upcoming models include the Hero Xpulse 210, TVS Apache RTX 300 and BMW F 450 GS. The Xpulse 210 builds on the success of the Xpulse 200, promising better performance at an affordable price. The Apache RTX 300 appears to be a stylish ADV with a brand-new engine, which was showcased at Auto Expo 2025. Also revealed there was the BMW F 450 GS, which generated buzz with its rugged styling and new engine.

UP AND ABOUT

For those lucky enough to live near the Himalayas, these bikes are made for the mountains. Their suspension, tyres, geometry and comfort make them perfect for tackling challenging terrain while carrying luggage with ease.

A ride to Ladakh — the holy land of Indian motorcycling — is a true test of their durability and capability. Out there, you will spot a number of adventure bikes streaking across the mountain roads. Practical, affordable and built for adventure, these machines guarantee a grin on your face as you throttle across distant lands.

— The writer is an automotive journalist